Sub Tank

A collectible item in the Mega Man X series that stores surplus life energy to restore the player's health during battle.

Action

6

Games

2001–2006

Years

4

Platforms

$72.46

Ø CIB

+9.7%

24M change

About

In Mega Man X5, Mega Man X6, and Mega Man Xtreme 2, Sub Tanks are valuable hidden items that players can discover throughout various stages. When the player collects health energy while at full health, the excess is stored in these tanks. Players can then access the sub-screen menu at any time to consume a filled Sub Tank and fully replenish their health bar.

These portable reservoirs evolved from the classic series' Energy Tanks, adapting to the more complex level designs of the 32-bit and handheld eras. In Mega Man X5 and Mega Man X6, players can locate up to two Sub Tanks hidden in stages like Grizzly Slash's warehouse or Blizzard Wolfang's cavern. Finding them often requires utilizing specific armor abilities, such as the Falcon Armor's flight, or Zero's specialized techniques. These titles also feature related variants, including the Weapon Tank for ammunition and the EX Tank to increase starting lives.

For Mega Man Xtreme 2, the developers integrated the Sub Tank into both stage exploration and the shop system. Players can purchase a Sub Tank from Iris using DNA parts, offering an alternative progression path suited for handheld play. Across all three titles, securing these items drastically lowers the difficulty of late-game boss rushes. This strategic layer influenced subsequent Capcom spin-offs, with similar replenishment systems appearing throughout the Mega Man Zero franchise.